Kris Glidden ’81

Athletics

Kris Glidden, a native of St. Peter, Minnesota and a 1981 graduate of Gustavus, is entering her tenth season as the head gymnastics coach at her alma mater. In her nine seasons she has led the Gusties to a third place NCGA finish in 2002, a fourth place showing in 2003, and fifth place finishes in 2001 and 2004. During Glidden's tenure, she has coached six gymnasts who have earned 16 NCGA All-America honors and four NCGA event champions, including nine-time All-American and 2002 NCGA All-Around Champion Amanda Parker.

Last season, the Gusties went 4-2 in dual meets and finished 6th in the WIAC Championships.

Prior to returning to Gustavus in 1997 as an assistant coach, Glidden taught physical education and health and was the head girl's gymnastics coach at Windom (MN) High School from 1981 until 1996. While at Windom, Glidden was named the Minnesota State High School Association's Gymnastics Coach of the Year in 1984.

Glidden began her gymnastics career at the age of 12 as a pupil of legendary Gustavus gymnastics coach Nancy Baker in the early 1970s. After traveling around the state demonstrating gymnastics techniques for Coach Baker in coaching clinics, Glidden enrolled at Gustavus in 1977 and competed for the Gustie gymnastics team for three years. She was the state champion in the floor exercise in 1978 and 1979. In 1980, Glidden finished 10th on the balance beam at the AIAW National Championship and helped the Gusties to a third place finish. She competed in three national championship meets during her career at Gustavus.

In addition to her duties as head gymnastics coach, Glidden teaches in the health and exercise science department at the college. Glidden lives in St. Peter with her husband, David, and children, Ashley, Lauren, and Nicolas.

Contact Information

Athletics
Gustavus Adolphus College
800 West College Avenue
Saint Peter, MN 56082

Phone: 507-933-6409
E-mail: kglidden@gustavus.edu

Courses Taught

• Begin Tennis
• PF:Dance
• Relaxation
• Social Dance
• Tchng Dance & Gymnast

Kris Glidden's Schedule